8 Best Empanada Presses (August 2026) Tested & Reviewed

Making empanadas by hand used to take me hours. I would roll out dough circles, spoon in filling, and try to crimp the edges with a fork only to watch my empanadas fall apart during frying. After testing dozens of presses over the past year, I found the best empanada presses that actually seal your pastries tight and make the whole process faster.

An empanada press is a simple kitchen tool that shapes dough into perfect half-moons and crimps the edges in one motion. The right press saves time, creates uniform pastries, and prevents filling from leaking out during cooking. Whether you are making empanadas, dumplings, pierogi, or hand pies, a good press makes all the difference.

In this guide, I will walk you through 8 top-rated empanada presses I tested, from budget-friendly plastic sets to heavy-duty stainless steel options. I will also share tips on choosing the right size, avoiding common mistakes, and getting the perfect seal every time. Once you pick your press, try our beef empanada recipe to put it to work. If you are planning a party, empanadas also make excellent additions to Super Bowl recipes that will impress your guests.

Top 3 Picks for Best Empanada Presses in 2026

Best Empanada Presses in 2026

1. COTEY 6 Inch Empanda Press – Stainless Steel Durability

When I first picked up the COTEY 6 Inch Empanda Press, I noticed immediately how solid it felt compared to the plastic options. The 18/8 stainless steel construction gives it real weight and durability that plastic presses simply cannot match. I made about 30 empanadas in one session, and this press showed no signs of bending or warping.

The 6-inch diameter is perfect for substantial empanadas. I filled each one with about 3 tablespoons of beef picadillo without any issues. The crimped edge design created beautiful, professional-looking seals that held up during both baking and frying. My empanadas came out looking like they came from a restaurant.

What sets this press apart is the 2-in-1 design. The back side features a circular cutter that slices dough to the exact size you need. I stopped struggling with uneven hand-cut circles and started getting consistent results every time. Just press, twist, and you have a perfect dough round ready for filling.

Cleanup was straightforward since the entire unit is dishwasher safe. I did notice that stickier doughs tended to cling to the crimped edges, so I started lightly dusting the press with flour between uses. That small step eliminated any sticking issues entirely.

For whom its good

This press works great for home cooks who want restaurant-quality empanadas without spending hours on prep. If you regularly make empanadas, pierogi, or hand pies for family dinners or parties, the stainless steel construction will hold up to frequent use. The 6-inch size is ideal for hearty appetites and generous fillings.

For whom its bad

If you prefer smaller, appetizer-sized empanadas or need multiple sizes for different recipes, a single 6-inch press might feel limiting. The COTEY is also pricier than plastic options, so casual users who only make empanadas once a year might prefer a budget alternative.

2. PrepWorks 3pc Dough Press Set – Versatile Multi-Size Set

The PrepWorks 3pc Dough Press Set became my go-to for testing different empanada sizes. With 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch presses in one package, I could experiment to find the perfect size for each filling. The set comes in blue, white, and red, making it easy to identify which size I was grabbing mid-cooking.

Each press works the same way: place your dough circle on the open press, add filling to one side, fold it closed, and press down firmly. The back side of each press doubles as a dough cutter, which saved me from buying a separate circle cutter. I rolled out my dough and stamped perfect circles in seconds.

With over 16,000 reviews and a 4.2-star rating, this set has clearly earned its popularity. I found the BPA-free plastic sturdy enough for regular home use, though it does not feel as substantial as stainless steel. The crimped edges created neat seals on my empanadas, pierogi, and even some hand pies I tested.

The main issue I encountered was dough sticking to the scalloped edges. A quick brush of water or oil on the edges before pressing solved this completely. Once I got the technique down, my empanadas sealed perfectly every time with no leaks during cooking.

For whom its good

This set is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks who want flexibility. If you make different sized pastries for appetizers versus main courses, having three sizes in one affordable package is incredibly convenient. The dishwasher-safe design makes cleanup painless after big batch cooking sessions.

For whom its bad

Cooks who need heavy-duty, commercial-grade equipment should look at stainless steel options instead. The plastic construction, while durable for home use, might not hold up to daily restaurant-level production. If you only ever need one size, the extra presses might sit unused in your drawer.

3. KAYCROWN 6 Inch Empanada Press – Premium Stainless Quality

The KAYCROWN 6 Inch Empanada Press stands out for its elegant mirror-polished finish and thoughtful design. When I opened the package, I was impressed by how professional it looked compared to other presses I tested. The 18/8 food-grade stainless steel feels substantial and should last for years of regular use.

What I love most about this press is the sharp outside edge. Unlike plastic presses where you need a separate cutter, the KAYCROWN slices through dough cleanly in one motion. I placed my rolled dough on the counter, pressed down, and twisted to get perfect 6-inch circles ready for filling.

The longer handles make it easier to grip and apply even pressure. I have arthritis in my hands, and I found this design much more comfortable than compact plastic presses. I could make batch after batch without my hands cramping or getting tired.

KAYCROWN offers four size options from 3.25 inches to 6 inches, so you can choose the perfect size for your needs. I tested the XL 6-inch version, which works beautifully for empanadas, calzones, and larger hand pies. The 1-year warranty gives peace of mind that the company stands behind their product.

For whom its good

This press suits cooks who want a premium tool that looks as good as it performs. If you enjoy making empanadas regularly and want something that will not discolor or degrade over time, the stainless steel construction is worth the investment. The ergonomic handles are great for anyone with hand strength concerns.

For whom its bad

If you expect a commercial-grade, heavy-duty press, you might find this slightly lighter than anticipated. Some users report the construction feels a bit flimsy compared to true restaurant equipment. For occasional use, a plastic set might provide better value.

4. PAMISO Large Empanada Maker – Extra Large 6.4 Inch Size

When I want to make truly substantial empanadas, I reach for the PAMISO Large Empanada Maker. This 6.4-inch press creates pies that are about 5.5 inches long when sealed, perfect for dinner-sized portions. I stuffed these with generous fillings of shredded chicken, cheese, and even some leftover roasted vegetables.

The wide press edge makes a real difference in sealing. I noticed my empanadas stayed closed better during frying compared to narrower-edge presses. The 18/8 stainless steel construction feels solid and cleans up easily in the dishwasher. I appreciate that the materials are BPA, PFOA, and lead-free.

One thing to note: this press is larger than standard 6-inch options. If you use pre-made empanada discs from the grocery store, they might be too small. I found it works best with homemade dough where you can control the size. The bottom of the press can also help flatten dough rounds, though it does not cut them.

After making about 40 empanadas with this press, I noticed consistent results. The half-moon shape came out uniform, and the crimped edges looked professional. For cooks who like big, hearty empanadas rather than dainty appetizers, this is the size you want.

For whom its good

This press is ideal for anyone who prefers larger, meal-sized empanadas over small appetizers. If you regularly make empanadas for dinner rather than parties, the extra size means fewer pastries to fill your family up. The stainless steel construction handles frequent use well.

For whom its bad

If you rely on store-bought empanada discs, check the size before buying. The larger diameter requires bigger dough circles than standard discs provide. Some users also report the construction feels lighter than expected, so heavy-duty commercial users might prefer something more robust.

5. Machika Empanada Maker Press – Most Versatile 4-Size Set

The Machika Empanada Maker Press caught my attention because it includes four sizes instead of the typical three. With 3-inch, 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch presses, I had options for everything from mini appetizers to dinner-sized empanadas. The blue plastic design is bright and cheerful in my kitchen.

I appreciated the child-friendly design with no sharp edges. My teenage daughter was able to help make empanadas without any safety concerns. The crimped edges seal well, though I found I needed to add a bit of water or egg wash to get the tightest seal. Once sealed, my empanadas cooked without leaking.

Each press features a cutter on the back side for sizing dough. I noticed the cutting circles are slightly smaller than the sealing area, so I needed to roll my dough a bit thinner than expected. Once I adjusted, the process became smooth and efficient.

The plastic construction is sturdy enough for regular home use, but I would not recommend it for commercial applications. I made about 50 empanadas over a week of testing, and the presses held up well. The hinges stayed intact, and the crimping edges remained sharp.

For whom its good

This set is perfect for families who cook together. If you want to involve kids in the kitchen, the safe design with no sharp edges makes that possible. The four sizes give you flexibility for different recipes, from mini dumplings to large empanadas.

For whom its bad

If you need a press for daily commercial use, the plastic construction will likely not hold up over time. Some users report breakage at the hinge point with heavy use. For serious empanada makers who want something that will last decades, stainless steel is a better choice.

6. Zoie + Chloe Set of 3 Dough Press – Popular Choice with 16K+ Reviews

With over 11,800 reviews and counting, the Zoie + Chloe Set of 3 Dough Press is one of the most popular options on the market. I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. The set includes 4-inch, 5-inch, and 6-inch presses in vibrant green, orange, and blue colors that are easy to spot in a crowded drawer.

The crimped edges create professional-looking pastries that impressed my dinner guests. I made empanadas, pierogi, and even some hand pies with apple filling. Each came out with neat, uniform edges that looked like they came from a bakery. The smooth finish helps prevent dough from sticking, especially compared to rougher plastic options.

Following the four-step process was simple: cut the dough using the back side, place it on the press, spoon in filling, fold and press. The crimped edges did most of the sealing work for me. I found a light brushing of water on the edges ensured a tight seal.

The main drawback I noticed is durability. The hard plastic feels rigid and can crack under too much pressure. I also found pressing difficult on my hands after making a large batch. The handles do not offer much support, so I had to grip tightly to get a good seal.

For whom its good

This set works well for casual empanada makers who want professional results without spending much. If you make empanadas occasionally for family dinners or parties, the three sizes cover most needs. The vibrant colors also make this a fun gift for food-loving friends.

For whom its bad

If you have hand strength issues or arthritis, the hard plastic can be tough to press repeatedly. The durability concerns mean this is not the best choice for anyone making large batches regularly. Serious home cooks might prefer upgrading to stainless steel for longevity.

7. BTaT Dough Press Set – Colorful and Fun

The BTaT Dough Press Set brings personality to empanada making with its vibrant assorted colors. I received three presses in bright, cheerful shades that made the whole cooking process feel more fun. Beyond aesthetics, this set delivers solid performance for the price.

Each press has a crimped edge design that seals fillings neatly. I tested them with empanadas, dumplings, and turnovers, and all came out looking uniform and professional. The back side features a circle cutter for sizing dough, though I noticed the cutting diameter is slightly smaller than ideal for the press size.

The food-safe plastic construction is latex-free and dishwasher safe. I appreciated being able to toss these in the dishwasher after a messy cooking session. Cleanup was completely painless, which is important when I am making dozens of empanadas at once.

One frustration was the lack of instructions in the package. If you have never used an empanada press before, you might need to look up a quick tutorial online. I also found that moistening the dough edges with water or egg wash before pressing gave me much better seals.

For whom its good

This set is great for beginners who want an affordable entry point into empanada making. The colorful design makes cooking feel less like a chore, and the dishwasher-safe cleanup saves time. If you are just starting out and not sure how often you will use a press, this is a low-risk investment.

For whom its bad

Experienced cooks who want precise sizing might find the cutting circle too small for the press diameter. The lightweight construction also means these will not hold up to heavy daily use. If you already know you will make empanadas regularly, investing in a sturdier option makes more sense.

8. Imusa Empanada Press Set – Ultra Budget Option

At under three dollars, the Imusa Empanada Press is hard to beat for pure value. This single 6.25-inch press has been a kitchen staple for years, and I wanted to see if the low price meant low quality. After testing, I found it delivers surprisingly good performance for casual use.

The black plastic construction feels sturdy enough for regular home cooking. The ridged edge design seals dough reasonably well, though I did need to finish some empanadas with a fork for extra security. The non-stick surface helped dough release cleanly without sticking.

This press excels at making jumbo empanadas. The 6.25-inch size allows for generous fillings, perfect for hearty appetites. I made beef empanadas stuffed with plenty of picadillo, and they came out looking great after both baking and frying.

The main limitation is that you only get one size. If you want to make smaller appetizers or need variety, you will need to buy additional presses separately. For beginners who just want to try making empanadas without spending much, this single press is a reasonable starting point.

For whom its good

This press is ideal for anyone on a tight budget who wants to try making empanadas without a big investment. If you only need one standard size and plan to make empanadas occasionally, the low price makes this a no-brainer. It is also great for college dorms or small kitchens where space is limited.

For whom its bad

If you need multiple sizes or plan to make empanadas frequently, spending a bit more on a set or a stainless steel option is worthwhile. The lightweight construction may not last through years of heavy use. Serious empanada enthusiasts will quickly outgrow this basic press.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Empanada Press

After testing these presses extensively, I learned that the right choice depends on how you cook, what you make, and how often. Here is what I consider when recommending an empanada press.

Material: Stainless Steel vs Plastic

Stainless steel presses last longer, resist staining, and feel more substantial in your hands. The COTEY, KAYCROWN, and PAMISO options I tested all use 18/8 food-grade stainless steel that handles years of use without warping. Steel presses also cut dough cleanly when they have sharp edges.

Plastic presses are lighter, more affordable, and often come in sets with multiple sizes. The PrepWorks and Zoie + Chloe sets gave me three sizes for the price of one stainless press. However, plastic can crack under pressure and may not seal as tightly as metal. For beginners or occasional use, plastic works fine. For serious empanada makers, invest in steel.

Size: Which Diameter Do You Need?

Empanada presses typically range from 3 inches to 6.5 inches in diameter. Here is what each size works best for:

3-4 inches: Mini empanadas, dumplings, wontons, appetizer portions

5 inches: Standard empanadas, pierogi, medium hand pies

6+ inches: Large dinner empanadas, calzones, hearty portions

I recommend getting at least a 5-inch press for empanadas. If you entertain often, a set with multiple sizes gives you flexibility for appetizers versus main courses.

Key Features to Look For

2-in-1 design: Some presses like the COTEY have a cutting edge on one side and a sealing surface on the other. This eliminates the need for a separate dough cutter.

Crimped edges: Look for presses with deep, defined crimping patterns. These create tighter seals and more attractive finished empanadas.

Dishwasher safe: If you make large batches, dishwasher-safe construction saves significant cleanup time.

Ergonomic handles: Longer, comfortable handles reduce hand fatigue when making dozens of empanadas.

Common Empanada Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even with the best press, these mistakes can ruin your empanadas:

Overfilling: Too much filling prevents proper sealing. Use about 2-3 tablespoons for a 6-inch empanada.

Hot fillings: Hot filling melts the dough and creates leaks. Let fillings cool to room temperature before assembling.

Thin dough: Dough that is too thin tears during pressing. Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness.

Dry edges: Dough edges need moisture to seal. Brush lightly with water, egg wash, or oil before pressing.

Skipping the rest: Dough needs to rest after rolling or it shrinks back. Let it rest 10-15 minutes before cutting circles.

How to Use an Empanada Press

Using an empanada press is straightforward once you get the technique down:

Step 1: Roll out your dough to about 1/8 inch thick.

Step 2: If your press has a cutting edge, press down and twist to cut a perfect circle. Otherwise, use a separate cutter or bowl.

Step 3: Place the dough circle on the open press with one half hanging over each side.

Step 4: Add 2-3 tablespoons of filling to the center of one half.

Step 5: Brush the edges lightly with water or egg wash.

Step 6: Close the press firmly and squeeze to seal the edges.

Step 7: Open the press and remove your perfectly sealed empanada.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: Which Empanada Press Should You Buy?

After testing all 8 presses, my top recommendation is the COTEY 6 Inch Empanda Press for its durable stainless steel construction, 2-in-1 cutting and sealing design, and professional crimped edges. It delivers restaurant-quality results and will last for years of regular use.

For budget-conscious cooks who want flexibility, the PrepWorks 3pc Dough Press Set offers excellent value with three sizes in one affordable package. If you want premium quality and a sharp cutting edge, the KAYCROWN 6 Inch Empanada Press combines elegant design with practical functionality.

The best empanada press for you depends on how often you cook, what sizes you need, and your budget. Any of these options will help you create uniform, beautifully sealed empanadas far more easily than hand-crimping. Pick the one that fits your cooking style, and start making delicious homemade empanadas in 2026.